**Gaia's POV**

"No." I shake my head firmly. "Not yet."

Astrein's expression shifts to concern. "Gaia, you've earned this. The pack needs to recognize you officially—"

"They need time," I interrupt gently. "We just survived a crisis. Those nobles are still adjusting. If you force the Luna announcement now, it might create resentment instead of acceptance."

"I don't care about their resentment." His voice hardens with protective determination. "You've been patient ...